Portuguese giants Benfica are reportedly in talks to sign Chelsea attacker João Félix on a six-month loan deal, according to journalist Pedro Almeida. The 25-year-old forward joined Chelsea this summer in a deal worth £46.3 million after a lengthy transfer saga with Atletico Madrid.
Despite the hype surrounding his arrival, Félix has struggled to find regular game time in the Premier League, with most of his appearances coming in the Europa Conference League and the League Cup.
Félix’s technical ability and flair make him an ideal fit for the number ten role in Enzo Maresca’s 4-2-3-1 system. However, he has found himself behind Cole Palmer in the pecking order. This limited opportunity became particularly evident in Chelsea’s match against Everton, where Félix was left as an unused substitute despite fans expecting him to come on to change the game.
With Palmer tightly marked by the Toffees, many felt Félix could have made a difference, but Maresca opted not to use him.
This lack of game time has reignited rumors of Félix returning to his boyhood club, Benfica. He rose through Benfica’s youth academy and established himself as one of Europe’s most promising young talents before making a record €127 million move to Atletico Madrid.
A return to Benfica could offer Félix the chance to rediscover his form and secure regular first-team football, something he has struggled to achieve since leaving the Portuguese club.
Benfica, currently leading Sporting CP in the Primeira Liga standings, are looking to strengthen their squad as they fend off late challenges from their rivals. With the departure of Ruben Amorim, Benfica aims to reinforce their attacking options to maintain their title push.
For Félix, this move could be an opportunity to rebuild his confidence and showcase his abilities on a consistent basis.
However, Chelsea may be reluctant to let Félix leave, even on loan. The Blues are determined to win the Europa Conference League to secure a return to the Champions League next season.
With Christopher Nkunku available to step into the number ten role and uncertainty surrounding Mykhailo Mudryk due to his suspension for a doping violation, Chelsea will want to maintain squad depth. Félix’s versatility could still play a key role in their campaign, making his departure less likely unless a favorable deal is struck.
